2021
Published on: Dec 21, 2021 at 10:40
Seasons Greetings
The Very Best of Wishes
The Soirbheas Board – Jimmy, Ian, Malcolm, David, Erik, Morag and Jack; and staff – Carol and Nicky, would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and all the very best for the New Year.
We are looking forward to continue to support groups and projects across Glen Urquhart and Strathglass in 2022.
Published on: Mar 17, 2020 at 17:31
Coronavirus
In response to COVID-19
Due to the increased spread of COVID-19 and the expectation that the situation will continue to worsen over the forthcoming weeks and months, Soirbheas have decided on the following actions regarding workflow and how we might best support the community during this very challenging time.
> Carol and Nicky will work from home from now to the full extent possible. As there are only two staff members, we want to avoid the risk of both of us becoming infected at the same time. Home working does reduce this risk however, we will avoid face to face contact over the forthcoming weeks or until the risk has been significantly lessened.
> All activities or events that require bringing together groups or large numbers of people will be suspended for the foreseeable future. When the situation becomes more settled, we will look to reschedule these activities.
> We will halt all face to face meetings with external parties but use phone and online tools to maintain our interaction with the community. We will not conduct or attend face to face meetings. We will avoid any direct contact with elderly and or known vulnerable individuals while undertaking our roles. To maintain good relations our business and community support can be contacted by phone and utilise conference calls and email communication.
> Soirbheas Board and Directors meetings will be replaced with virtual meetings (using a conference call facility), to ensure grants are assessed and any important business including reporting to funders continues.
> We are aware that some organisations and individuals in our community will be facing challenging times and we may need to explore what Soirbheas can do to assist in the coming weeks. Carol will be contacting our key partners and the Community Councils to gain an understanding of what they see as key issue and areas of support most needed.
Our funding sessions between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on the 26th March (Balnain) and 30th April (Drumnadrochit) are now being carried out by telephone and email.\~
Our Board meeting on the 30 April in the Craigmonie Centre is cancelled.
Carol or Nicky can be contacted as normal to discuss project support and grant application processes.
Contact details:
Carol Masheter, Community Development Manager,
Email: [email protected] T: 0751 445 2783
Nicky MacLennan, Assistant Community development Officer,
Email [email protected] T: 07842 781986
Published on: Oct 14, 2021 at 11:18
Local Job Vacancy
Community Development Officer
GURCA are recruiting for a Community Development Officer, on a three year contract, £20,500 p.a., working 4 days per week.
Are You:
- Passionate and Community Spirited
- Team Player and Forward Thinking
- Highly Motivated and Enthusiastic
- Innovative Thinker and Skilled in Social Media
For full details and application forms please contact: Susan Clark at [email protected] or on 07900 216021
Published on: Nov 8, 2021 at 16:48
Official Opening at Cnocan Burraidh
Saturday 13 November at 1:30pm
Thank you for following the story of the renovation and community activities for this project.
You are now warmly invited to visit the site to mark the completion of the renovations. Access through the gate opposite the astro turf/primary school turning area and follow the path up the small hillock. Sturdy foot wear is advised.
Published on: Oct 11, 2021 at 16:20
Pop-up Green events – Cannich and Drumnadrochit
Sat 30 October 10 – 12 noon ouside Glenurquhart Childcare Centre, Drumnadrochit
Sat 13 November 10 – 12 noon,outside Cannich Stores, Cannich
For nearly three decades the UN has been bringing together almost every country on earth for global climate summits – called COPs – which stands for ‘Conference of the Parties’. In that time climate change has gone from being a fringe issue to a global priority. This year will be the 26th annual summit – giving it the name COP26. With the UK as President, COP26 takes place in Glasgow. But we are keen to bring COP26 closer to home.
- Come and try out an electric-assisted bike,
- Find out about how you can get involved in our new Green Swap Project,
- Pick up some useful information and waste and energy-saving freebies
Every little change we make can be added together to make a big difference. A little change to try at home: take a smaller portion of food and if you are still hungry have seconds. This reduces leftovers on your plate which would usually get thrown away as we don’t tend to eat from someone else plate!
Instead, any leftovers in the pot/serving dish can get stored in the fridge or freezer for reuse.
Published on: Sep 16, 2021 at 09:23
Funding for Sports Clubs
Made By Sport Funds
The Clubs in Crisis Fund from Made by Sport supports sports clubs and organisations delivering sport for development that have been negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. This is a national fund being delivered locally by community foundations across the UK. Foundation Scotland is distributing all funding across Scotland.
Grant Size: up to £2021
The fund is open now and closes on 25 October 2021
Find out more https://www.foundationscotland.org.uk/apply-for-funding/funding-available/clubs-in-crisis
Soirbheas can help with funds available through our Community Support Grant and our Tier funds, or with access to our staff time through project Development Support days at no cost see more on our grants page
Published on: Sep 29, 2021 at 16:30
Buggy Walks Taster Session
Thank you for completing the survey which has helped us identify two taster session dates. The survey is open until the 18 October or contact Nicky for further information. The walks will last for about an hour, please bring a snack and a drink. Unless there is a thunder storm, torrential rain or ice the walks will go ahead, so dress for the weather in case it is wet.
Contact: [email protected] 0751 445 2783
Thursday 28th October 11am, Clunebeg walk. Meet from 10:45am at the car parking area at the bottom of Bunloit hill (as you head out of Lewiston on the Fort William side, cross Borlum Bridge, and the road is immediately on your right).
Tuesday 9th November 10am, Balmacaan Drive. Meet from 9:45am at Blairbeg playpark, Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit.
Tuesday 16th November 10am, walk around Balmacaan Drive. Meet from 9:45am at Blairbeg playpark, Balmacaan Road, Drumnadrochit.
We are delighted that Ruth and Chloe are going to be supporting the sessions as walk leaders. They have been busy considering options and took buggies out on a potential route, with the babies babbling away as they do when they are together with other little people. We hope you can make it along and would be grateful if you can share this with family and friends who may be interested in coming along.
Buggy Walks are a free, fun way for mums, dads, grandparents, and carers to meet new people, chat and share experiences on a safe and welcoming walk, led by a trained walk leader. Soirbheas, supported by Partnership for Wellbeing are keen to gauge the level of interest for a Buggy Walk in Glen Urquhart for babies and toddlers. The benefits include:
- Meeting other parents
- Improved mood and reduced anxiety
- Socialising and sharing experiences
- Being active and feeling fitter
- A free activity to join
- Setting healthy habits for children
- Getting out the house
- Getting to know local buggy friendly routes
- Being out in fresh air, outdoors and amongst nature
We aim to run taster sessions in the last week October/first week November. Walks are anticipated to be for about one hour.
We would be grateful if you can help with planning by completing the questionnaire at this link https://forms.office.com/r/eVRZhZVw7Z or scan the QR code
Published on: Jan 28, 2021 at 17:29
Highland Senior Citizens Network
Newsletter and Resources
Highland Senior Citizens Network’s COVID News-sheets are particularly geared to support those who aren’t online and ask that you please share. This supplement highlights some online opportunities for groups and individuals.
more on HSCN on their website
Published on: Jul 30, 2021 at 09:13
Renovations and Filming
Cnocan Burraidh Update!
Over the summer the work has continued at the memorial and grave site of the Grants of Glen Urquhart, and is nearing completion.
The railings have been repaired and mostly reinstated, the gates are to be erected and there is painting to do, but I’m sure you’ll agree it is looking amazing. Next will be the new entrance gate and signage.
Filming has started on our six community stories! Amanda and Chris have been busy over the last couple of months preparing scripts and filming options. The stories being covered are Early Years and Celtic Church; Battle of Coire Buidhe, Culloden and loss of fortunes, India and rebuilding in the Glen, Cnocan Burraidh and the people, and the great Shinty Camach of 14 January 1820 at Sheuglie.
Here is a little taster with stills from filming day about the Battle of Coire Buidhe – 27 June 1689, the site where James Grant 3rd of Sheuglie was killed, and believed to be the fist Grant buried at Cnocan Burraidh. Many thanks are extended to Mr MacLeod, Jimmy Gibb, and Neil Lyons for permission to film and photograph at the site and house, and for taking us out – very much appreciated.
And on Sunday 14 August 2021 the volunteer presenters went to Culloden to film and outline the story of betrayal of the Grants of Glen Urquhart by Ludovic Grant. Many thanks extended to Culloden, National Trust for Scotland, for permission to film.
Published on: Oct 14, 2021 at 13:30
Board Meeting
Invitation to Members
The next Board meeting, to which members are cordially invited will take place on Thursday 28th October, 2021, at 7:30pm.
We are anticipating that this can be held in person at Balnain Hall. We shall circulate agenda and confirmation of venue by next Thursday, 21 October.
If you have any queries please contact Nicky or Carol [email protected]
Published on: Oct 14, 2021 at 11:41
Local Job Vacancies
Glenurquhart Care Project
The Centre are currently recruiting the following staff to join their team in Drumnadrochit.
Applications close on Friday 22 October 2021
- Senior Support Worker – 28 hours a week @£12 to £13 an hour (depending on experience)
- Support Worker – Contract, permanent, hours negotiable, £10 an hour
- Relief Support Worker – £10 an hour
- Cleaner – 10 hours a week, £9.50 an hour
We also have a variety of volunteer roles which can fit in with your availability, including office tasks, support with activities with service users, advisors to the Board and Directors.
Please contact Pamela Poston, General Manager, for more information and an application form.
Tel: 01456 459077 email: m[email protected]
Glenurquhart Care Project, 31 Coiltie Crescent, Drumnadrochit, IV63 6TR
Published on: Mar 17, 2021 at 12:37
Development Support Days
New Service from Soirbheas
Does your group or project need some support and time to get it started?
In addition to Soirbheas’ grant programmes we now offer Development Support Days. These essentially provide an allocation of staff time to assist with the development of your project.
What sort of activities and projects will qualify for Development Support Days?
The projects will need to be based in the Glen Urquhart or Strathglass area, be of benefit to the community and led by a local group or organisation (that meets the normal funding criteria).
How many support days can you request?
An initial discussion with the development staff will help to ascertain how much support is required, e.g. smaller projects or events might just require 2 or 3 days over a couple of weeks; for larger or complex projects, e.g. to develop a venue or establish a new service, an allocation of 10+ days may be required.
If you would like to learn more or have a project in mind, please get in touch [email protected]
Published on: Mar 10, 2021 at 11:44
EMPLOYEE TRAINING GRANT
Business Support Grant
It has been a tough year all round, and we are delighted to be able to help with the introduction of a new grant specifically for local businesses.
The Employee Training Grant is open to employers/businesses based in the Soirbheas area (Glen Urquhart and Strathglass) to help toward covering essential training costs and or salary costs while training is being undertaken.
The primary aim of the Employee Training grant is to support businesses to adapt and recover from the impact of Covid, enabling staff to be re-skilled or undertake training to provide new services.
See more information on our grants page or download guidance Employee Training Grant (this fund has now closed)
Contact Carol to discuss your needs before applying email [email protected] or telephone 0751 445 2783
Published on: Jun 10, 2021 at 11:47
Applications for Grant Funding
All Funds are Open
Soirbheas offer a range of grants to constituted groups and charities within the Community Council areas of Glen Urquhart and Strathglass. These funds can be used for a variety of projects from providing arts or sports resources, renewable energy equipment, and employee support through apprenticeships and training costs.
Tier 1 Grants, Community Support Funds and Training Grants have a rolling application process, which means groups can apply at any time.
The grants we offer that have deadlines are:
- Tier 2 application date 1st December 2021
- Tier 3 – stage 1 is Expressions of Interest, deadline for applications to be submitted by 22 September – contact Carol now to start planning for this fund
- Apprenticeship Fund deadline is 27 October – planning can start now even if you don’t have a start date or young person identified
Development Support Days. Does your group need some advice and support to identify and develop your project ideas?
We offer a free service where our friendly and experienced staff can help you develop your projects through allocation of our staff time.
See further information and links to guidance notes on our grants page
Contact Carol or Nicky for advice and support with your needs [email protected]
Published on: Nov 20, 2020 at 11:28
Trustees, Volunteers and Staff
New – Free e-learning Platform
Are you a trustee, volunteer or do you work in the charity/third sector and would like to know more about Governance; Financials; Fundraising; Communications and Risk Management?
Have a look at the new SCOPE e-learning platform from SCVO, which provides entry-level information and learning to help you run your voluntary organisation.
Published on: Feb 10, 2021 at 17:40
Spring 2021 Newsletter
News from Soirbheas
Our first newsletter of the year is currently being distributed and we hope you enjoy reading about some of the fantastic developments that have managed to progress despite the restrictions of the last year. We are always happy to hear your views on content and suggestions for future editions.
If you would like to become a member and receive news and information about the work we support please complete a Membership Form
Or if you live outside the Glen Urquhart and Strathglass areas you can sign up for an electronic newsletter to be sent to your email, complete the request form at the bottom of the home page https://www.soirbheas.org/
Jan 25, 2021 at 14:48
Don’t Be Alone
Support Contact Information
During these extra stressful times of Corona virus infection, and the government restrictions on our contact with other people, we may feel stressed, anxious or lonely. But please don’t let things build up, there are really good people and organisations out there able to help.
As a result of our survey in December, we have produced a list of useful contacts – see below or download here.
We shall share more resources as they are produced. And if you have something that you feel would be useful for others we can share these through our communications channels, contact Nicky with information [email protected]
Published on: Jul 24, 2020 at 10:10
Social Entrepreneurs Fund
Funding Now Open
The Social Entrepreneurs Fund is back! This is great news if you are thinking about or already in the process of starting a social enterprise in Scotland. SEF has different funds depending on the stage you are at and how developed (or not) your idea is. Read on and find out more about the different funds you can apply to and which one is the right for you.
The Basics
So, what is SEF and who is it for? The Social Entrepreneurs Fund (or SEF) is a Scottish Government-funded programme that supports individuals in Scotland to test, start, and grow social enterprise ideas. It runs five different funds, three of which have now re-opened:
- Pounds for Purpose (PfP) – This fund is for individuals aged 16-26 with an idea to create positive change in the world around them. £500 awards are available to put ideas into action. PfP is an ongoing programme with no deadlines and quick turnaround times.
- Start It– SEF’s flagship programme, it supports individuals with a business idea and in need of support and funding to get it off the ground. Individuals can apply for up to £5,000 towards the start-up costs of their social enterprise idea. Start It is an ongoing programme with no deadlines, and the turnaround time is 12 weeks approx.
- Build It– Build It is for individuals whose social enterprises are already up and running (for up to 2 years approx.) and can demonstrate a track record of both generating income and social impact. Build it covers living costs, allowing entrepreneurs to dedicate themselves fully to making their idea a success. There are four open calls every year and the next deadline is on Tuesday 29 September.
See more on the website
Published on: Apr 28, 2020 at 15:25
Scams and How to Spot Them
Protect Your Information & Your Money
As a result of the significant rise in COVID-19 related scams, over the next few months, the Scottish Government Cyber Resilience Unit will share important information on a weekly basis. Advice and information is changing daily as we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic, so please ensure you only take information from trusted sources.
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
NCSC have launched the new Cyber Aware campaign promoting behaviours to mitigate cyber threat. The cross-governmental ‘Cyber Aware’ campaign, offers actionable advice for people to protect passwords, accounts and devices, new guidance for individuals and organisations using online video conferencing and how to report dubious emails.
Your bank (or any other official source) should never ask you to supply personal information from an email. If you have any doubts about a message , call them directly. Don’t use the numbers/emails in the email, but visit the official website instead.
Training Of The Week
Scottish Businesses Care: COVID-19 and counterfeit goods. In this webinar, the panel discuss the rise of counterfeit goods during the COVID-19 pandemic, hosted by Rachel Jones of SnapDragon Monitoring. https://youtu.be/z6GWudEa8Qo
New Scottish Government Guidance For Home Learning
This new guidance is aimed at pupils, parents and teachers, which makes reference to digital learning, with a focus on safety, security, privacy and safeguarding. This complements earlier guidance published by the General Teaching Council Scotland relating to online engagement by education professionals.
Trading Standards Scam Share
Other scams to be aware of are available in this weeks’ Trading Standards Scotland Scam Share newsletter. You can sign up for their newsletter here.
Trending Topics
WHICH, a well-known provider of product and services reviews are running a very informative page on COVID19 scams and how to spot and prevent them. Their page contains some excellent information and advice on the current scams. WHICH also cover wider COVID-19 related concerns.
HMRC
Criminals preying on our financial worries as they spoof government websites to take our money. Emails or texts supposedly from HMRC or our local council offering a tax refund or financial help (for example, Coronavirus Job retention scheme) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government has an up-to-date list of common HMRC scams on their website and all similar scams should be reported to them directly. Even if you get the same or similar phishing email or text message often, email it to [email protected] and then delete it. HMRC has also warned that returning NHS workers are being targeted by promoters of tax avoidance.
Google
The BBC have reported that scammers are sending 18 million hoax emails about COVID-19 to Gmail users every day, according to Google. The tech giant says the pandemic has led to an explosion of phishing attacks in which criminals try to trick users into revealing personal data.
Out of approximately 100 million phishing emails a day and over the past week, almost a fifth were scam emails related to coronavirus. This means that COVID-19 may now be the biggest phishing topic ever.
Tesco Vouchers
There have been reports about fake emails that appear to be from Tesco. The email states that the supermarket is offering free vouchers. The link in the email leads to a phishing website that looks like the genuine website that is designed to steal login credentials as well as personal and financial information. Read more on the legitimate Tesco website here.
Netflix Scam
As lockdown continues, usage for online streaming services has skyrocketed. Scammers have caught onto this, and so there has been an influx of Netflix related phishing emails circulating. The cybersecurity firm BrandShield have noted that since January 2020, 639 fake domains containing the word “Netflix” have been registered. These are being used to steal users credentials, money, or even to
spread malware onto users devices. Users should be cautious and only enter credentials into the legitimate Netflix website.
Sextortion Scam
Police Scotland is asking people to be aware of an email scam currently circulating where fraudsters are threatening to publish online footage of victims. Sixteen reports were made to Police Scotland overnight on Thursday 9 April 2020, with the latest number rising to 96 reports by Tuesday 14 April 2020. The reports have been from people across every police division in Scotland. The scam involves emails being sent to people with the suspect claiming to have video footage of the recipient visiting an adult website. The suspect is then demanding payment in bitcoin, threatening that failure to do so will result in the video being published. This is known as sextortion, an example of a phishing attack.
NCSC advice:
> Don’t communicate with the criminal
> Don’t pay the ransom
> Check if your account has been compromised – https://haveibeenpwned.com/
> Change any passwords mentioned
> Report any losses to your local police force
AUTHORITATIVE SOURCES
> National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
> Police Scotland
> Trading Standards Scotland
> Europol
> Coronavirus in Scotland
> Health advice NHS Inform
To report a crime call Police Scotland on 101 or in an emergency 999.
Tips for spotting telltale signs of phishing (fake emails) –
Spotting a phishing email is becoming increasingly difficult, and many scams will even trick computer experts. However, there are some common signs to look out for:
> Authority – Is the sender claiming to be from someone official (like your bank, doctor, a solicitor, government department)? Criminals often pretend to be important people or organisations to trick you into doing what they want.
> Urgency – Are you told you have a limited time to respond (like in 24 hours or immediately)? Criminals often threaten you with fines or other negative consequences.
> Emotion – Does the message make you panic, fearful, hopeful or curious? Criminals often use threatening language, make false claims of support, or tease you into wanting to find out more.
> Scarcity – Is the message offering something in short supply (like concert tickets, money or a cure for medical conditions)? Fear of missing out on a good deal or opportunity can make you respond quickly.
> Current events – Are you expecting to see a message like this? Criminals often exploit current news stories, big events or specific times of year (like tax reporting) to make their scam seem more relevant to you.
This information is from the Scottish Government Cyber Resilience Notice COVID-19 23/04/2020 which can be downloaded here
Published on: May 12, 2021 at 11:59
Growing in the Glens and Strath
Community Growing Projects
Over the last five months we have been facilitating a number of projects to reduce food waste and food insecurity, encourage growing and encourage community sharing. We were successful with an application to Foundation Scotland and CoOp Food Fund for £2364 to help with the cost of these initiatives.
Glens Community Larder: we have installed a shed – known as The Cabin, community food and growing – at the bottom of the car park at Cafe 82, Drumnadrochit. The Cabin is for use by all our residents to take, swap or make donations of unopened, non-perishable food products. Although we cannot take foods that must be refrigerated or frozen, when donations of vegetables and tatties are made we share details on social media.
We also use The Cabin to share and swap growing items which have included donations of seed trays, compost, vegetable seeds, tattie tubers and vegetable plants.
Growing Day: a very successful seed tattie day was organised in late February where we provided 1701 seed potatoes to residents across all our area. We overcame lockdown restrictions by introducing a pre-order and collect service. We expanded the offering for residents to try shallots, onions and garlic. Our very generous residents donated £453.85 which we divided between Strathglass & Affric Community Company and Glen Urquhart Horticultural Society to invest in further food growing projects in each area.
We provided wooden planters, peat free compost and seed tatties for a tattie community growing initiative being led by volunteers in Drumnadrochit, who will tend the plants and share the harvest with the community.
We have also provided 105 wild foraging trees which we have distributed across all our area, with planting complete at Glen Urquhart Childcare Centre who are planting an elder(flower) tree and a hazel(nut) tree. Craigmonie Community Woodland, Balnain Community Hall, and Marydale have all planted a selection of trees – elder, hazel, crab apple, rowan, blackthorn and dog roses. All the trees have been planted in community accessible areas for future harvesting of fruit, edible flowers, berries and nuts. We were generously donated tree tubes and some doweling to act as stakes.
Food Bag Project: we prepared and delivered 60 food bags to children in the primary and nursery school in Cannich, and the nursery children in Glen Urquhart. The packs contained a variety of items to reduce food waste, encourage healthy eating and cooking, support community resilience, reduce carbon footprint and resources to try growing food crops.
Balnain Primary School: we were delighted to be able to help the children, staff and volunteers at the school care for their gardens and greenhouse plants by providing hand forks in a variety of sizes to suit small hands and deep vegetable beds. And, so as not to be too heavy for the children and kinder to the environment, a 4.5 litre metal watering can. We’ll look forward to seeing the results of your care for your plants and garden.
Published on: Aug 19, 2021 at 16:43
Board Meeting
Thursday, 26 August
All members are cordially invited to the next Board meeting which is taking place at 7:30pm on Thursday 26 August, 2021.
As we gently ease out of lockdown restrictions we have decided to host this meeting by telephone/video conference using Microsoft Teams. The agenda and joining instructions have been sent via email to members.
Please contact Carol if you have any queries:
email [email protected]
telephone Tel: 0751 445 2783
Published on: Jun 29, 2021 at 14:30
Funding Surgery
June 30th 2pm – 4pm
We have sadly made the decision to postpone the Growing Day session due to the number of confirmed corona virus cases in Drumnadrochit. There are a stack of the new composting leaflet we have produce in The Cabin and watch out for samples of the different composts we have trialed for you to try too. We will let you know a revised date as soon as we can and in the meantime wish everyone a speedy recovery.
We are still available to discuss your funding needs and project ideas, either by telephone, or if you prefer we can host a meeting with you through Microsoft Teams. Drop us an email to arrange: [email protected]
Groups can apply for Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, Community Support Fund and Development Support Days.
Businesses we can support you through our apprenticeship funding and Employee Training grants.
Some of our grants (Tier 2, Tier 3, and Apprenticeships) have closing dates, so please get in touch as soon as possible to start the application process.
Perhaps your group requires new equipment – as our picture shows we have helped with funding for electric cargo bikes; or perhaps you need new kit, transport or tuition, see more project images we have funded here.
See more on our grants page.
Published on: Jun 24, 2021 at 14:35
Growing Day and Funding Surgery
30 June from 2 – 4pm
Carol and Nicky will be at The Cabin – Community Food and Growing in Drumnadrochit (bottom of Cafe 82 carpark), on Wednesday 30 June between 2 and 4 pm.
This is the final part of our Growing Day initiatives with CoOp Food Fund. Come along and find out about making compost to reduce food waste. If you bring a small sample of your garden soil or home made compost we can test the ph level for you and give advice on what to do to improve this for best results. We will also have a variety of shop bought peat free composts which we are growing some seeds in to determine if there is a difference. You can take away a sample of these with you. We will also have available our compost leaflet with handy hints and tips from the Royal Horticultural Society.
If you have any surplus seeds or plants please bring them along to swap with others.
We are also taking the opportunity to host a Funding Surgery, so if you are a members of a group or a business owner please come along to discuss potential funding options.
Groups can apply for Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, Community Support Fund and Development Support Days.
Businesses, we can support you through our apprenticeship funding and Employee Training grants.
See more on our grants page and we’ll look forward to seeing you next week.
Published on: Jun 7, 2021 at 15:39
Soirbheas AGM 2021
Notice for Members
NOTICE OF AN ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Company number: SC356487
The Soirbheas AGM 2021 will be held on Thursday 24th June 2021 at 7.30pm By Video/Telephone Conference
Notice has been sent to all members via email and postal service. If you have not received communication or need joining instructions please contact Carol Masheter [email protected]
See our https://www.soirbheas.org/next-board-meetings/ page for more information
And our draft annual accounts are available at https://www.soirbheas.org/annual-accounts/
Published on: May 31, 2021 at 17:39
Your Vote Counts!
Photo Competition 2021
(voting is closed)
Thank you to everyone who has taken part in this years community competition – a super range of photos from across the Strath and Glens. Anonymous shortlisting has now resulted in five photos from each theme and class being selected to go forward to the community vote.
To vote for your favourites, you can scan the QR code using a smart phone which will take you straight to the voting form or click on this link
Voting closes at 09.00 on Monday 14th June 2021. The entry in each class with the most votes is the overall winner. In the event of a tie-break the Soirbheas Board will make the final selection.
The results will be announced at our AGM on Thursday 24 June 2020 at 7.30pm and then posted on our social media and web site.
Joining instructions will be circulated to members via the AGM papers in the next week. If you are not a member please contact Nicky for details on how to join the meeting.
Any problems with accessing the form please email [email protected]
Good Luck everyone!
See our project page for more information and to view the final photos.
https://www.soirbheas.org/soirbheas-photography-competition/
Published on: Mar 22, 2021 at 14:29
Beauly and Glens Helping Hands Befriender
Befrienders and Clients
The local befriending service covers the Glens, as well as villages across Glen Urquhart, Strathglass and the surrounding Beauly area. Scroll down the page to read more or open the information sheet here
Published on: Apr 19, 2021 at 17:07
Cameras at the Ready
Annual Photo Comp is Open!
**Closing Date extended to Tuesday 25 May 2021**
- Do you currently live in Glen Urquhart or Strathglass?
- Have you taken photos in our area and are not a professional photographer?
- Do you fancy winning a £50 voucher to spend in a local business of your choice?
- Would you like to help a local charity/group with their funds by nominating them to receive £100 from Soirbheas?
- Entry is free to anyone living in our areas, and if you are a member you will automatically be entered into the bonus prize draw.
- 12 photos from all entries (landscape format only) will be selected for the community calendar
Dust off your cameras, or look out photos you have taken since the 1st January 2021 – that fit the following themes – and enter our annual photo competition. Please note due to lockdown affecting community events and activity photo entries can be from any date – so we may have a walk down memory lane too!
Themes
- Our landscape and wildlife
- Our community and activities (activities in groups, with family or individual)
- Our landmarks and iconic buildings – bridges, hotels, houses, shops, lochs and glens – or is there something new to hgihlight?
Classes
- Under 18’s
- Adults (18 and over
Please read the full Competition Rules HERE before entering.
Please submit an entry form with your photo/s HERE
Become a member – application form
See previous competitions here
Published on: Feb 22, 2021 at 16:45
Growing Day / Tattie Sale
Fantastic Response Thank You
Our Growing Day orders have been a great success, all 1700 seed tatties, 191 onion sets, 65 shallot sets and 36 garlic cloves have been reserved.
As our stock arrived earlier than expected we have started distributing orders, and were in Cannich at the end of last week. Nicky will be in Balnain on Wednesday and Carol is making arrangements in Struy for this week. On Saturday (27th Feb) Nicky will be at the new Community Larder shed behind Cafe 82 and is the process of contacting everyone with proposed collection times. This will help us maintain social distancing, and we are very grateful for your patience to help us achieve this.
We shall be organising seed and plant swaps from the larders and will keep you posted.
Hints and tips to help you on your growing journey see How to Grow Potatoes or visit our tattie project page and see the Horticultural Society Facebook
The Growing Project for 2021 is being funded through a successful application for £263 from The CoOp Food Fund and Foundation Scotland.
Published on: Apr 7, 2021 at 11:29
Getting All Geared Up!
Bike Related Activities
Working in Partnership with Velocity and the Loch Ness Hub, Soirbheas is excited to share with you the first in a series of bike-related activities to get you out pedaling this Spring!
There are Cycle Training sessions for families on the 1st May and 8th May. Children who use balance bikes or stabilizers are welcome to attend but can take part in the car park but for safety reasons not on the road.
Click here to book a Family Cycle Training session
In conjunction with Soirbheas and Velocity, The Hub ran a Doctor Bike session for free maintenance checks and minor repairs on the 24th of April. Watch our news for details of further sessions.
Both of these sessions are being delivered by experienced and certified staff from Velocity.
eBike Trials – If you would like to add your name to the waiting list contact [email protected] or call 0751 445
Published on: Mar 22, 2021 at 10:31
Board MeetingThursday 29th April 2021
The next meeting will be held via Microsoft Teams at 7:30pm on Thursday 29th April 2021. Joining instructions will be circulated to members by Thursday the 22nd April.
If you have any queries please contact [email protected]
Our list of all Board Meeting Dates for 2021/22 are available here
Our list of Grant Application deadlines for 2021/22 are available here
Published on: Mar 10, 2021 at 10:27
Apprenticeship Funds
Applications Are Open
If you are considering employing a new member of staff, have you thought about offering the position as an apprenticeship to a young person age 16 – 24? If so you may be eligible for our financial assistance of up to £22,500 over three years, plus £1000 towards essential equipment and PPE. This is a grant (not a loan) towards the cost of wages.
In addition, you should receive financial help with training costs when you register with an approved training provider, Scottish Apprenticeship website has more details.
There are over 80 frameworks available in Scotland from finance, to engineering, mechanics to rural skills, see more here
Our application process is open now, closes on 28 April, and a decision on your application will be made by 25 May.
Please contact Carol to discuss taking your application forward, and see further details available on our apprenticeship page
email: [email protected] Telephone: 0751 445 2783
Published on: Mar 10, 2021 at 09:32
Glenurquhart Care Project Community Survey
Future Service Need
GCP are carrying out a survey of care provision currently provided in Glen Urquhart and Strathglass to find out the community’s thoughts on how help and support services might develop in the future.
The results of the anonymous survey will be available to all households in the community and we will provide an online opportunity for all residents to discuss the findings.
We are keen to hear the views of all residents whether you are young, semi-retired, or retired.
The link to the survey is here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GCPGURCA
or scan the QR code There are 16 questions, and it should take about 10-15 minutes to complete. The survey closes on the 28th March 2021.
If you have any questions, please contact Hazel Allen of Delfinity on [email protected] or 07824 510647, or contact the GCP Chair Diane Norris on [email protected].
Please do pass this on to others who are resident across Glen Urquhart and Strathglass. Thank you for your help in shaping GCP’s future.
Published on: Nov 23, 2020 at 10:42
Electric Vehicle, e-bike or charging point?
New Grants and Loans from EST
The Energy Savings Trust (EST) have just announced financial help for people in Scotland to purchase an electric vehicle, e-bikes and an additional grant of up to £400 towards the cost of installing an electric charge point at your home.
Support to reduce your travel fuel costs
- loans of up to £28,000 are available to Scottish drivers to cover the cost of purchasing a new electric vehicle (this includes up to £10,000 to cover the cost of purchasing a new electric motorcycle or scooter)
- loans of up to £6,000 are available to Scottish residents to cover the cost of up to two new ebikes, a new family cargo or ecargo bike or an adaptive bike or ebike
- if you live within a 20km radius of a planned low emission zone, you may be eligible for support to help you move away from older, polluting vehicles
- if you are considering a home charge point, you can apply for £300 (or £400 if you live in some remote parts of Scotland) towards installation. This is on top of available OLEV funding
- the Used Electric Vehicle loan offers eligible drivers in Scotland an interest-free loan of up to £20,000 to cover the cost of purchasing a used electric car, or up to £5,000 for the purchase of a used electric motorcycle or moped.
Published on: Feb 22, 2021 at 16:14
Introduction to Mindfulness
15th March 7:30 pm
Join Dr Peter Wilkes in this introductory session to mindfulness. This session is a starting point on relaxation and mindfulness and how this can help us deal with a variety of feelings. The session is free and everyone is welcome.
You can contact Peter for more information before the session by email on [email protected] or visit the Highland Mindfulness facebook page or visit their website
Joining instructions: Please email Nicky for the passcode [email protected] then just before 7:30 pm on the 15th – click on the Zoom link below and follow the online instructions.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81681902739?pwd=WWRZVjJ2dEtBUjBEK05TM3NVOWs0Zz09
Meeting ID: 816 8190 2739
The Highland Mindfulness Group have a 45 minute session every weekday morning, and Peter delivers a longer session on a Thursday evening – information and contact [email protected] or facebook page or website
Published on: Jan 7, 2021 at 12:23
CoOp Food Fund
**Successful Application**
We are delighted to have been awarded £2364 from the CoOp Food Fund, through Foundation Scotland.
- Over the next few months we will be facilitating healthy eating & cooking, identifying how to reduce food waste and addressing food insecurity with 60 children at Cannich Bridge Primary and Nursery Schools and Glen Urquhart Childcare Centre.
- We will be organising a Growing Day at the beginning of March, encouraging and developing how to swap seeds, plants and crops, advice on growing food crops, selling individual tattie tubers, garlic, shallots and onion sets; and lots more.
- We are purchasing a shed to be sited in Drumnadrochit for food swap donations and waste reduction resources. We are aiming to have the shed in place by the end of February to hold the Growing Day.
Community involvement is very important in all the work we do. We would welcome volunteers to support these and other projects. Please get in touch with Nicky [email protected]
Published on: Jan 7, 2021 at 10:55
Whats on Digital and in Our Area
To Do & Be Local
Lots of interesting environmental based sessions coming up in January and February. There is a charge for some sessions, information on each page.
- 11th Jan, 18th Jan, 25th Jan, 1st Feb & 8th [email protected]Highland Good Food Conference
- 21st Jan @ 09.00 Money Grows on Trees: Adding value to your farm with forestry
- 27 Jan @ 11.00 Bridget England, CIEEM, Managing Grasslands for Breeding Farmland Waders
- 27 Jan @ 19.00, UHI, Dan Puplett Animals Tracks & Signs
- 28 Jan @19.30 Dan Puplett Winter Tree ID
- 24 Feb @19.00, UHI, Dan Puplett Feather Identification
The Sheiling Project – see the website to find out about a variety of activities, learning opportunities and residential breaks that will be available as restrictions allow beside beautiful Strathfarrar, As well as animals, ground and growing, find out about the innovative renewable energy systems being installed that we are proud to have been able to support with our Tier 2 funding.
Abriachan Forest – enjoy the forest trails by foot or cycle. There are a number of facilitated groups and activities available when restrictions allow – see website for more information.
Guided Nature for Health Walks – Thursdays at 1.30pm from N4H – delivered via Zoom while restrictions in place and then in person – see website for more information.
The Glen Urquhart Health Walk Group will meet again as soon as restrictions allow them to meet again every Tuesday at 2pm
Published on: Sep 8, 2020 at 13:55
Warmer Homes Scotland
Latest Information
As we head towards the colder months have a look at the impartial advice from Home Energy Scotland and see the warmer home leaflet.
Published on: Jan 21, 2021 at 16:50
Growing / Tattie Day
Pre-Order for March Collection
Our Growing Day, incorporating the annual tattie day was planned for Saturday 13th March 2021. If you are new to the tattie day, we provide the opportunity for people to select the number of seed tatties (tubers) they require from a variety of quality tubers not usually available in small quantities locally.
But, Corona-virus restriction mean we cannot hold an open event, so to avoid disappointment we are offering a pre-order and collection service.
We have ordered a good variety of first, second, main and late main tubers. There is limited stock which will be allocated on a first come basis. Ordering will remain open until Friday 4th March or will close before then if all stock is allocated. As many of the varieties are very popular we would suggest you order early to avoid disappointment.
We still have four varieties left to choose from:
- Earlies: Red Duke of York, Early Rose
- Main: Highland Burgundy Red, Salad Blue
- Late Main: Pink Fir Apple
We hope you would like to take part in the growing project and perhaps share photos of your efforts, because as well as gardening being good for the mind and body, growing your own food crops:
- give you a great sense of achievement as they grow and when you harvest
- can involve everyone in your household, e.g. give the kids their own container to care for
- reduces our carbon footprint and cares for the environment
- reduces food waste and improves food insecurity – we hope you will swap your surplus produce at harvest time
- doesn’t need a lot of space – a container is as good as a veggie plot
What to do Now
- Have a look at the tattie descriptors as a PDF here: 2021 Seed Descriptions
or download a word document here: 2021 Seed Descriptions - Identify the tubers and how many you would like, then download and complete our pre-order-form – if you have problems with the form please email your order to Nicky
- Would you like to try growing: White Onions, Shallots , Garlic – we have a small number available, please tick the box on the order form if you would like to try growing these on – sorry these have all been allocated
- We will be organising collection points in Cannich, Struy, Tomich, Balnain and Drumnadrochit.
- Please return your pre-order form by Friday 4th March to Nicky by email [email protected]
- We will bag your order ready for you to collect at an agreed time by Saturday 13 March.
- We are not charging 20p per tuber this year, but if you are able to make a donation you can do this when you collect your order. Donations will be used to supply resources for other growing projects.
Any problems with the form please telephone Nicky on 07842781986 or Direct Message on our Facebook Page
Hints and tips to help you on your growing journey see How to Grow Potatoes or visit our tattie project page and see the Horticultural Society Facebook
The Growing Project for 2021 is being funded through a successful application for £263 from The CoOp Food Fund and Foundation Scotland.
Published on: Feb 1, 2021 at 17:46
Introduction to Mindfulness with Dr Wilkes
22 February at 10am
As part of the OpenNESS project, and in response to our recent survey, we have started preparing resources which you may find useful for mental health and wellness.
We are delighted that our own Dr Peter Wilkes is delivering an introductory session for those of us who are new to mindfulness or would like a refresher. This will give us a starting point on relaxation and mindfulness and how this can help us deal with a variety of feelings including anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Everyone is welcome.
The session is free and being delivered via Zoom.
To join the session: click on the link below and follow the instructions. If you haven’t joined a Zoom session before please give yourself some extra time to download the app.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86896359615?pwd=TWVCSG9Wck9qN05tcHNpbkF1VkJHUT09
Meeting ID: 868 9635 9615
Any queries please contact Nicky [email protected]
See more about Highland Mindfulness on Facebook
Drumnadrochit Mindfulness group website
Published on: Dec 9, 2020 at 16:42
Winter Wellbeing and Health
Hints – Tips – Contact Numbers
This winter, due to social distancing restrictions, many of us may be more isolated than usual. Our winter Leaflet contains hints, tips and contact telephone numbers to help you be better prepared. And our support leaflet provides a list of contact information on organisations that can help if you are feelingly lonely, depressed, anxious.
Please let someone know if you need help, your privacy will be respected by the staff and volunteers taking calls.
The Glens Community Helpline 07516 317180
The Highland Council Helpline 0300 303 1362
The Highland Council have prepared a briefing note about the new restrictions and contact details for Mental Health support and Advice.
Please stay safe and stay at home where you can but do get out to exercise.
And remember hands (keep them clean), face (wear a mask), space (keep two metres apart).
Support, advice and resource can also be found at:
• Samaritans – 116 123 (calls are free and do not show on a phone bill)
• Breathing Space – 0800 83 85 87
• Mikey’s Line – 07786 207755
• Ewen’s Room – 0800 689 3317
• National Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234
• LGBT Helpline Scotland 0300 123 2523
• Childline – 0800 1111
• CRUSE Bereavement Care Scotland – 0845 600 2227
Additional resources:
While we can’t control many of the challenges around us, there are still things we can do to protect our mental health and wellbeing.
Clear Your Head Great tips from the Scottish Government and partners to help get you through these difficult times.
Highland Mental Wellbeing A collection of resources gathered by NHS Highland to support mental wellbeing
SAMH Information Service you can talk to their Information team about mental health on 0344 800 0550. If you urgently need help SAMH have put together a list of organisations who can help if you need to speak to someone.
Protect your wellbeing in winter. – winter themed tips to protect your wellbeing based on the ‘5 Ways to Better Mental Health’
See The Highland Council Website for more information on the support on offer for individuals and businesses.
Published on: Sep 17, 2020 at 09:28
Autumn Newsletter
Welcome to Autumn
Please find attached the autumn newsletter which we hope you enjoy reading. Autumn Newsletter
Our previous newsletters are available here https://www.soirbheas.org/newsletters/
If you have any queries or would like to know more please get in touch.
Published on: May 1, 2020 at 11:28
Awareness Resources
Toolkit Available
The working group have finalised the learning and support toolkit. This is one of our initiatives to increase awareness and confidence in how we communicate, serve and support people with hidden and visible barriers in our communities. The list isn’t exhaustive and we hope you will let us know of other good resources that we can share.
Unfortunately attending face-to-face training is not an option at the moment due to the current pandemic. But on-line resources are still available, and we are getting much better and more confident at using them.
Soirbheas have also introduced a Community Fund for groups to access financial support to help with costs or provide service, including technology or communications to keep people connected. Please let us know if we can help or signpost you to relevant resources.
See more on the OpenNESS – Inclusive Communities project on our web page.
